“As such she chosen to share them with all the mothers and families on the maternity ward floor by putting them on the reception.”

Meanwhile, congratulations had also arrived from Japan’s prime minister and the Commonwealth Secretariat. Other world leaders to send their regards since the birth have included the Queen, UK prime minister Theresa May, Malcolm Turnbull, and Justin Trudeau of Canada.

New Zealand’s first family are now expected to make their first public appearance on Sunday morning, when they depart hospital and head home for time out of the spotlight.

Jacinda Ardern poses with her baby and midwife Libby. Source: Getty

Reporters have been gathering at the public Auckland Hospital since Ms Ardern arrived there on Thursday morning, driven by partner Clarke Gayford.

Ms Ardern has become the first elected world leader to take maternity leave and for the next six weeks will only be consulting on major issues while her deputy, Winston Peters, handles day-to-day matters.